When Kendyl thinks about her future, she sees herself in nursing scrubs — but her path to that goal has already given her something even more valuable: A deep connection to the people she serves. What began as a search for a hands-on role to complement her nursing studies quickly became a calling. She remembered meeting Senior1Care at a high school job fair, and when she spotted a caregiver position online last June, she knew it was the right fit.
Over the past year, she has worked with clients whose needs range from companionship to full daily assistance. Some days that means reading together, enjoying a client’s singing, or listening to stories about their lives. Other times, it’s helping with housework or daily tasks. “It’s about showing people that they matter, that they deserve love and someone to care for them,” she says. “I’ve been helped a lot in my own life, and I want to give that back.”
Currently on a break from nursing school after hip surgery in March, Kendyl plans to transfer to Indiana University Fort Wayne next year. She may take a CNA class in the meantime but says caregiving will remain part of her life no matter what.
One of the things she values most about Senior1Care is the atmosphere. “Everyone I’ve met has been so nice and thoughtful — with clients and colleagues. They’re flexible, caring, and they want the best for the people we serve.”
She’s also learned the importance of self-care. Early on, she found it challenging not to take clients’ frustrations personally. Now, she makes space for herself when needed and speaks up about her limits to avoid burnout. “When you’re caring for others, you can forget to put yourself first. But you have to, so you can keep giving your best.”
Caring for others is something she’s been drawn to since childhood. “I’ve wanted to be a nurse since first grade. I think I get my nurturing side from my mom — she always puts others before herself, no matter how busy she is.”
Outside of work, Kendyl enjoys reading, working out, being outdoors, traveling, walking, swimming, spending time with friends and family, and thinking about her dream vacation (likely somewhere tropical).
Until she sets sail for Hawaii or Bahamas, though, she has a bit of advice for new and fellow caregivers who wonder if they are enough: “In some situations, you may feel you haven’t done enough. But you are doing everything to the best of your ability, and that ultimately ends up being way more than ‘just enough.’”
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